Predictors of Job Satisfaction Among Rural Emergency Medical Technicians

Determinants of Stress, Depression, Quality of Life, and Intent to Leave in Washington State Emergency Medical Technicians During COVID-19

OBJECTIVES

This study characterizes determinants of stress, depression, quality of life, and intent to leave among emergency medical technicians (EMTs) in the Puget Sound region, Washington, during the COVID-19 pandemic and identifies areas for intervention on these outcomes.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey measured stress, depression, quality of life, and intent to leave among EMTs ( N = 123). Regression models were developed for these outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 23.8% of respondents were very likely to leave their position in the next 6 months. Job demands predicted stress and depression, and financial security predicted stress and quality of life. Intent to leave was predicted by stress, manager support, and length of employment.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased exposure to hazards has impacted EMT mental health. Emergency medical technicians are vital to healthcare, so improving EMT health and well-being is important, as attrition during a pandemic could impact public health.

Sources of disagreement among public and private agency paramedics

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of the study was to document the occurrence and causes of disagreements between paramedics in a tiered-response emergency medical services (EMS) system. METHODS. This cohort analysis of disagreements between paramedics sampled 63 male public agency, 90 male private agency, and 41 female private agency paramedics. Paramedics responded to Likert-type items and one open-ended item concerning the occurrence of conflict between paramedics.

RESULTS

On-scene conflict between EMS personnel from public and private agencies was reported by 70% of the respondents. Conflicts that interfered with patient care were reported to occur more frequently between paramedics from different types of agencies. The most commonly mentioned subject of disagreement was patient treatment, followed by patient transport, interpersonal and interagency conflicts, and patient assessment.

CONCLUSION

A majority of paramedics have experienced on-scene disagreements with other paramedics. Disagreements occur more frequently between paramedics from different agencies and encompass a wide range of issues concerning patient care and interpersonal relationships.